An Evaluation of Relative Importance of Dynamic Network Performance and the Predictability of End User Movement

Many existing handover mechanisms trigger network selection based on dynamic performance characteristics such as Received Signal Strength (RSS), Delay, and Loss. These approaches do not take into account how the predictability of end user movement can be used to influence and optimize handover selection. Scenarios in which predictable movement can be observed include motorways, public service vehicles and student class schedules in educational institutions. This work investigates if the consideration of predictability of movement, with dynamic performance characteristics, could improve handover decision management. A range of relative weightings of dynamic performance and mobility predictability are evaluated. Results presented illustrate that taking predictable movement as an input metric has a significant beneficial effect on the handover decision process.